A scrubber is an abrasive cleaning tool that’s used to help remove tough stains, grease, burnt-on food or surface buildup through friction. Scrubbers can include scrub sponges, scrub pads or sink brushes. They can be used in different ways, scrubbing dirty pots, pans and dinnerware in the kitchen or removing soap scum in a bathroom.

A sponge is a cleaning tool that’s soft, absorbent and used for wiping and carrying soapy water. A scrub pad is an abrasive cleaning tool that’s textured and meant for scrubbing away stuck-on grease and grime from a surface. Sponges are made from soft, porous materials like foam or cellulose that can be squeezed easily. Scrub pads are not absorbent and are made with nylon, polyester or metal fibres to create a rough, woven or textured surface.

If you’re looking for the best cleaning cloth, consider using a microfibre cloth. Microfibre cloths offer high density and superior absorbency for water and cleaning solutions, and they leave a streak-free finish without scratching. Their tiny, split synthetic fibres provide a large surface area that traps dirt, absorbs heavy liquids and can attract microscopic dust and bacteria without needing to use harsh cleaning chemicals.

There are two ways you can sanitize a sponge; the first one is by using a microwave or using a dishwasher. To sanitize a sponge in a microwave, start by making sure your sponge doesn’t have pieces of metal or a plastic scrub pad. Then soak it in water and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Turn the microwave on for 1 minute and let the sponge cool for 10 to 15 minutes. Then squeeze out excess water. To sanitize the sponge in a dishwasher, place it on the top rack of your dishwasher and wash it along with your other dishes. Even with regular cleaning and sanitizing, you should replace your sponge every 1 to 2 weeks.